According to tradition, this carnival event was established in commemoration of the march through the Great St. Bernard Pass by Napoleon and his troops in May 1800, during his campaign in Italy.
- A carnival with ancient origins
- Typical original masks
- Joy and laughter for children
- Party country
A bear is also represented and symbolises the arrival of Spring; mule tails represent the winds and are used to banish baleful breezes; the mirrors on the costumes ward off evil spirits and the bright red colour, which symbolises vigour and strength, also has the power to dispel dark spirits, ill omens and misfortune. During the parade, the carnival characters enter the homes of local families; they dance along the streets and in the squares and eat and drink whatever they are given.
Program
Sunday, February 11
9.00 am Meeting of the masks in loc. Praz-du-Mas-Farcoz
9.30 am Start of the parade
12.30 Lunch with friends of the masks
2.00 pm Restart with visit of the masks to the families of the village
10 pm Dancing evening with the "Liscio Simpatia" orchestra at the school gym. Entrance 5 euros
Tuesday, February 13
9.00 am Meeting of the Masks at the Foyer de Fond
10.30 am Visit to the families of Cerisey and the high hamlets of Bosses
Note - this information is not directly connected to the Cammino Balteo path but it is part of the Aosta Valley tourist offer.